32423, Bascom, Florida Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 32423, Bascom, Florida is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.94 percent of residents in 32423 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Hospital with a distance of 14.69 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 32423**

Navigating the path to healthcare within ZIP code 32423, encompassing the rural community of Bascom, Florida, requires a keen understanding of its transportation landscape. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension, considering the critical need for timely and reliable access to medical care. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare services, factoring in commute times, available transportation options, and accessibility features.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Bascom is the reliance on personal vehicles. The absence of robust public transit presents a significant hurdle, especially for those unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Marianna, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route involves traveling along **Highway 90** east, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic congestion during peak hours.

The drive from Bascom to Marianna's hospitals and clinics can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This seemingly short distance becomes a critical factor for individuals with hypertension, who require regular check-ups, medication refills, and potentially emergency care. Delays in reaching healthcare can lead to uncontrolled blood pressure, increasing the risk of serious complications like stroke and heart attack.

Alternative routes exist, but they add to the commute time. Residents might opt to use **Highway 73** south, which connects to **Highway 90** further east. This route, while less prone to congestion, adds approximately 10 minutes to the journey. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

Public transportation options are virtually nonexistent in this area. There are no established bus routes operating within or connecting directly to Bascom. This stark reality severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The absence of public transit underscores the transportation challenges faced by vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Marianna, but their presence in Bascom is inconsistent and unreliable. The availability of these services depends on driver density, which is often low in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore precarious. The cost of these services, especially for frequent trips, can also be a significant financial burden, further restricting healthcare access for low-income individuals.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, particularly for those requiring assistance with mobility. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Priority Ambulance** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of NEMT may be limited, especially during peak demand or in emergency situations.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) mandates that public transportation and medical facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of public transit in Bascom renders these ADA provisions largely irrelevant. The accessibility of healthcare facilities in Marianna is crucial, but the ability to reach them remains the primary challenge.

For individuals considering moving to Bascom, the transportation limitations are a crucial factor to consider. Those with hypertension or other chronic conditions must carefully evaluate their ability to manage their healthcare needs. The reliance on personal vehicles, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the limited public transit options create significant barriers to healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" for Bascom, ZIP code 32423, would be low. The lack of reliable transportation, coupled with the distance to healthcare facilities, poses a substantial risk to individuals managing hypertension. Improving healthcare access in this area requires a multi-faceted approach. This could include advocating for public transit, partnering with ride-sharing companies to improve availability, and supporting the expansion of medical transport services.

Telehealth services offer a potential solution, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. However, telehealth relies on reliable internet access, which may be limited in some areas of Bascom. Expanding broadband infrastructure is essential to ensure that all residents can benefit from telehealth services.

Community-based initiatives, such as carpooling programs or volunteer driver networks, could also help bridge the transportation gap. These programs would require community support and coordination, but they could provide a vital lifeline for individuals struggling to access healthcare.

The healthcare landscape in Bascom underscores the importance of addressing transportation disparities. By improving access to healthcare, we can empower individuals with hypertension to manage their condition effectively, leading to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life. The journey to healthcare in Bascom is a challenge, but with strategic interventions and community collaboration, it is a challenge that can be overcome.